Haverford Man Charged, Detained On Federal Gun Crimes

HAVERFORD, PA — Haverford man is facing federal gun charges after authorities said he possessed several firearms and ammunition while being a convicted felon.

United States Attorney William M. McSwain said Joseph LaForte, 49, of Haverford, was arrested and charged by indictment with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

According to authorities, LaForte, who is a twice-convicted felon and owner of Philadelphia-based cash advance business Par Funding, knowingly possessed seven firearms in his home. LaForte is accused of possessing two shotguns, four loaded handguns, and a loaded rifle.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports LaForte and two of his family members were convicted in a $14 million real estate scam.

After the LaForte was arrested on Aug. 7, the federal authorities requested LaForte be held contending he was a flight risk and a danger to the community as authorities said LaForte made death threats to his customers.

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, LaForte also threatened to flee the country in his private plane and hide money in offshore accounts.

A federal judge Tuesday agreed and detained LaForte until his trial.

If convicted, LaForte faces up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.